INTEGRATION OF VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE FEATURES IN A POLO SPORTS CLUB, MINNA, NIGER STATE

Abstract

ABSTRACT Vernacular architecture is the expression of an individual person’s or society’s culture, history and locality or geographic area being reflected in their immediate environment and surrounding buildings. Buildings connect individuals to the culture, as the human desire to be culturally connected to ones surrounding is reflected in a harmonious architecture. The constant deterioration of the current Minna polo field, the bare nature of the field and the lack of supporting facilities as outlined by the Niger State Government mandates the need for a modern facility that incorporates indigenous culture and promotes development in the State; hence the need for a Polo Centre that adopts vernacular architecture. This research provides an example of how architecture can be an expression of a particular culture, exploring the influence of culture on architecture in Niger State by considering the major ethnic groups the Gwari’s and the Nupe also with little interest on the minority ethnic groups in Niger State, Nigeria. The research adopted a descriptive research method, employing the use of observation schedule, an ample review of existing literature, a selection of local and foreign case studies for data deduction to obtain data concerning sports clubs and vernacular architecture design. Field survey and observation were conducted on five selected sports club using the purposive sampling technique case studies. The data obtained was analysed and presented using tables and pictures. Findings indicate a low level of implementation in the use of vernacular architecture design principles in the design of sports club. However the research also proposed a design of a Polo Centre in Minna, Nigeria, incorporating elements for optimum airflow, use of indigenous vegetation, incorporating of gender considerations in the allocation of spaces, and traditional materials and features within and outside built spaces. It is important to note that vernacular design principles are passive and sustainable measures; engravings, compound layout, house forms, and locally sourced building materials that can be adopted by the Government and other associated bodies to enhance the connections to the people’s immediate environment, history and culture, which is highly recommended by the research. The research concludes by advocating for the use of vernacular design principles applicable to building architecture in Nigeria.